Political Communication in action at the Cabinet Office
Wednesday, March 19, 2013
Charlie Hughes visited the No 10 Press Office during his Whitehall placement
MA Political Communication student Charlie Hughes recently experienced political communication in action when he secured a Cabinet Office placement at 70 Whitehall.
Charlie took the opportunity to put into practice his new skills and knowledge in the fast paced communication environment of Whitehall.
Charlie said “I was struck by the ever evolving environment within the Press Office, a whole day’s agenda could change in an instant, it was a truly exciting place to be.
“My BA from Cardiff in Journalism and MA helped me to develop an understanding of the important relationship between the media and the world of politics, this knowledge was vital in helping me to incorporate myself as an informed and effective member of the team.”
Students on the MA programme are encouraged to apply for work placements at relevant political and communication organisations, such as the National Assembly for Wales, with the support of the course director, Dr. Stephen Cushion.
Dr Cushion said, “The course explores the rapidly evolving role of communication in political life, both nationally and internationally, so working in Whitehall for two weeks is an ideal environment to witness communication in action.
“MA Political Communication lectures examine how the increasing importance of spin doctors, the 24-hour news cycle and image-based politics is shaping the news. So these placement opportunities, when available, are particularly useful to help inform and develop our student's knowledge of the subject.”
Although primarily an academic course, the MA also offers opportunities to acquire some professional skills through practical workshops and away day seminars such as the recent away day at the National Assembly for Wales
Charlie concluded, “I helped to develop briefing packs for politicians and for the media, sat in on select committee discussions and helped to produce responses to news stories and government reports.
“It was great to see how communication is implemented at the height of government, and I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity.”
Read more about MA Political Communication or apply online.
Related Links
Dr Stephen Cushion's School Profile
See Also
Success for Cardiff at Royal Television Society awards
Honorary Professor Alan Rusbridger’s inaugural lecture
Newspaper Journalism wins NCTJ's "Best Performing Postgraduate Course"